The evolving role of women in Indian hospitality

As the General Manager of Aloft Bengaluru ORR, it's my privilege to share insights into a subject close to my heart: the evolving role of women in Indian hospitality. The hospitality landscape in India, much like the rest of the world, has been witnessing a remarkable transformation, with women increasingly taking center stage in various facets of the industry, challenging stereotypes and reshaping its narrative. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including education, changing cultural perceptions, and evolving workplace dynamics. 

Education plays a pivotal role in empowering women to pursue careers in hospitality. Many educational institutions and hospitality management programs in India are actively encouraging female participation and providing them with the necessary tools to succeed in diverse roles, ranging from hotel management to culinary arts. 

At Marriott Hotels, we believe in the power of diversity and inclusion. We recognise that diversity not only enriches our workforce but also enhances the guest experience, fosters innovation, and drives business success. We are proud to be part of an industry that celebrates individuals from all walks of life and provides equal opportunities for growth and advancement. 

Through initiatives such as leadership development programmes, mentorship opportunities, and networking forums, we provide women with the support, guidance, and resources they need to thrive in their careers. By investing in their professional growth and well-being, we not only unlock their full potential but also set a precedent for other industry players to follow suit. 

As a female leader within Marriott International in South Asia, I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to be mentored by our Area Vice President, Ms. Ranju Alex. Ms. Alex stands as a beacon of inspiration and leadership, not only within our organization but also across the broader hospitality industry. Through her leadership, she has not only shattered glass ceilings but also paved the way for countless women to rise and thrive in leadership positions. 

In addition to education and changing cultural norms, evolving workplace dynamics within the hospitality industry have also contributed to the rise of women in leadership positions. Companies are increasingly recognising the value of diversity and inclusion, not only as a moral imperative but also as a strategic advantage. Women bring a unique set of skills, perspectives, and experiences to the table, making them invaluable assets to the hospitality industry. Their innate ability to multitask, communicate effectively, and empathize with guests' needs aligns perfectly with the demands of our dynamic and customer-centric environment. By harnessing these qualities and nurturing their leadership potential, we empower women to excel in roles across all departments, from operations and sales to finance and marketing. 

One area where the presence of women in Indian hospitality is particularly notable is in hotel management. From general managers to department heads, women are making their mark and leading by example, demonstrating their ability to drive success and innovation in this competitive industry. 

Despite these advancements, it's important to acknowledge that challenges and barriers still exist for women in Indian hospitality. Gender discrimination, unequal pay, and work-life balance issues continue to pose obstacles to women's career progression. However, with continued efforts towards gender equality and empowerment, coupled with supportive policies and initiatives, the future looks promising for women in Indian hospitality. 

Furthermore, the rise of women in leadership positions has had a ripple effect, inspiring younger generations of women to pursue careers in hospitality and aspire to leadership roles. By serving as role models and advocates for gender equality, women leaders in the hospitality industry are paving the way for future generations to succeed, irrespective of gender or background. 

As we look towards the future, it's imperative that we continue to champion diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our operations. By fostering a culture of respect, equality, and opportunity, we not only create a more vibrant and inclusive workplace but also contribute to the larger goal of building a more equitable society. 

Author Bio: Sita Lekshmi is General Manager, Aloft Bengaluru Outer Ring Road